A 36-year-old motorcyclist who was killed in a collision with a van has been named locally as Ronnie Sheehan.

Police were called with reports that a Kawasaki motorbike and a Vauxhall van were in a collision in Marine Parade East, in Clacton, just before 7.55pm yesterday.

One fire engine from Weeley and one from Clacton arrived at the scene following reports that the van was on fire.

Firefighters extinguished the fire by 8.10pm.

Mr Sheehan from Clacton, sadly died at the scene.

An Essex County Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: “The incident was left in the care of the police and the ambulance Service.”

The ambulance service was called at 7.49pm and three ambulance crews, a rapid response vehicle, and an ambulance officer assisted to assess the patients.

Gazette:

Tributes - A card reading, 'with deepest sympathy' placed on railings in Marine Parade East

A North East Essex Ambulance spokesman said: “Sadly, the motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene and our thoughts are with him and his family."

The van driver, a 37-year-old man from Clacton, was taken to Colchester Hospital with neck pain.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “He was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and is currently in custody awaiting questioning.

“The road was closed for about six hours while forensic examination work was carried out.”

Witnesses and anyone with dash cam footage or CCTV are asked to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01245 240590 or email collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk.